Review by Jonathan Godfrey for Mr. Will Wong
The Expendables 3 is evidence that a Sequel can surpass its Predecessors. Though the first two Films did an excellent job establishing the Motley Crew, it is the latest Instalment that makes the most out of the mix. And the mix is more eclectic than ever before.
Stallone, Schwarzenegger, Statham, Lundgren, Li, Couture and Crews are back reprising their roles as mercenaries with oddball handles (e.g. Christmas, Trench and Toll Road). But there’s also a new Band of Boys and one Girl added to the Ingredient List. Wesley Snipes, Harrison Ford, Kelsey Grammar, Kellan Lutz, Victor Ortiz, Glen Powell and Ronda Rousey join Stallone‘s Barney Ross on his quest for vengeance. Oh, and Antonio Banderas who plays Galgo, an abandoned Dog who seeks friendship amidst this star- studded Squad. But before he comes barking about and stealing a scene or two, Barney and Company run into a considerable amount of trouble.
Trouble begins when Caesar (Crews) tastes death’s draught on an adventure gone awry. The reason: Stonebanks. Played by Mel Gibson, Stonebanks is man from Barney‘s past who proves to be his toughest foe yet. Or better yet his greatest. Gibson excels as the Villain, for he not only poses a formidable threat, he also brings the Heroes and their morals into question. This last point is, one of the Script’s greatest strengths: the Villain wins the crowd over… even if for a moment.
Ultimately, this is gun-toting glorification of Cowboys and their right to run wild. So our Heroes though questioned, end up answering with their six-shooters. Bang Bang! Jingle Jangle! One-liners and bullets from all angles! Clever Setpieces, and cool Choreography; an amazing arsenal and picturesque geography. As it was stated from the start, this Chapter is the best of the bunch. And this is saying a lot as we enjoyed the first two Films in the Franchise immensely! Kudos, Mr. Stallone, kudos.
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